Forming new relationships
A person with dementia is still capable of forming new and intimate relationships. Read our advice on supporting someone who may be forming these relationships.
Sex, intimacy and dementia
Forming new relationships in care homes
People with dementia in care homes may form new sexual relationships with other care home residents. As long as both parties agree and have capacity to consent to these relationships, then care home staff should respect such relationships.
It may be difficult for staff to balance residents’ needs for privacy against their need to be cared for and looked after. For example, a person may need assistance washing and bathing directly following sex. Staff should also respect the confidentiality of relationships between residents and do not have to disclose information to relatives and other parties.